St. Paul Peterson Celebrates Six Years of the International Funk Friday Music Series

What began as a weekly online musical collaboration during the COVID-19 pandemic has grown into an international movement connecting artists through creativity, friendship and the universal language of music. On Friday, July 17, 2026, St. Paul Peterson—member of Minneapolis’ legendary Peterson musical family, acclaimed singer, songwriter, producer and one of the enduring voices of the Minneapolis Sound—celebrates the sixth anniversary of Funk Friday with an unforgettable evening at the iconic Dakota in downtown Minneapolis.

Originally launched as a weekly online music series, Funk Friday brought together musicians from around the globe to perform original music, celebrate one another’s artistry and keep the spirit of collaboration alive during an unprecedented time.

What began as a creative outlet quickly evolved into an internationally recognized community of artists and fans, proving that great music has the power to unite people across continents. Now, six years later, Funk Friday comes to the stage with one of its most exciting lineups to date.

Quote

“Funk Friday has always been about bringing people together through music. Six years later, those Friday collaborations have become lifelong friendships. It’s an honor to celebrate that journey with these incredible musicians and with everyone who has supported us along the way.” — St. Paul Peterson

World-Class Guest Artists

Robert “Sput” Searight – Grammy Award-winning drummer, co-founder of Ghost-Note and member of Snarky Puppy. Roger Smith – Legendary Hammond B-3 organist and longtime keyboardist with Tower of Power. Lenny Castro – One of the world's most recorded percussionists whose résumé includes Toto, Stevie Wonder, Fleetwood Mac, Eric Clapton, Adele, U2, Phil Collins, the Rolling Stones, Stevie Nicks and many more.

Featuring Special Guests

Patty Peterson – Award-winning vocalist, broadcaster and one of Minnesota's most celebrated musical ambassadors. Eric Leeds – Legendary saxophonist whose unmistakable sound became a defining voice of Prince's Paisley Park era.

House Band

Jason Peterson DeLaire – Saxophone, Keyboards & Vocals Joe Finger – Drums Joe Elliott – Guitar Tommy Barbarella – Keyboards (New Power Generation)

Supporting Free Guitars 4 Kids

This year's celebration proudly supports Free Guitars 4 Kids, a Minnesota nonprofit founded by Terry Esau that provides free guitars and musical opportunities to children throughout the community.

Presented in Partnership with

Jazz88 (KBEM 88.5 FM), the Twin Cities’ premier public jazz station and longtime champion of Minnesota musicians and live performance.

Event Information

Friday, July 17, 2026 7:00 PM Dakota Minneapolis, Minnesota Tickets: dakotacooks.com